Specialist Short Training Courses
Level 3/4 BTEC Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) (Award)
This award is for those who are, or who want to be, a teacher, tutor or trainer and need to be able to plan, prepare and implement learning. PTLLS is the initial award, which has been developed to provide a threshold licence to teach or train in the FE sector in England. This qualification is a requirement for all those who are new to teaching, training or tutoring in publicly funded provision. The course can also be undertaken by trained tutors or teachers who want to update their underpinning knowledge and teaching or training skills.
Course Duration: five days with an average training day of 7½ hours. There is also an element of home study - Total time on programme is usually 1-3 months.
Level 3/4 Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS)
The Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector is available at level 3 or 4. Level 4 is much more theoretical and involves the ability to critically analyse, use specific referencing, and carry out detailed reflection and evaluation. The qualification is designed for those in the associate teacher role in an Adult and Community Learning Centre or Work Based Learning Centre or an FE College. This course enables delegates to be an associate teacher - An associate teacher may:
- teach from packs, rather than prepare materials
- teach one to one
- deliver a programme for one particular type of learner
- deliver short courses
Entrants need to be able to read effectively and communicate clearly and accurately enough in order to meet the requirements for this certificate. Entrants should normally hold relevant vocational and/or academic qualifications at least one level above those of their learners - they will need to be observed conducting at least 30hrs of teaching practice in a recognised lifelong learning environment.
Course Duration: – five days with an average training day of 7½ hours. There is also a significant element of home study - Total time on programme is usually 3 -6 months.
Certificates in Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 1 & 2
The certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy can improve numeracy and literacy skills and help improve performance through capability. Learners will brush up and or develop new skills and gain confidence in reading, writing and numeracy that will help with many aspects of private and working life. These qualifications can be fully funded through the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) subject to eligibility.
Course Duration: These awards are normally delivered as a bespoke qualification dependent on initial diagnostic assessment. Typically 12 – 16 hours study time over a period of 10 – 16 weeks. This time can be significantly reduced if consolidated class time can be agreed.
Functional Skills (English, Maths and ICT) Levels 1 & 2
These qualifications will provide an individual with the essential knowledge, skills and understanding that enable them to operate confidently, effectively and independently both in life and at work. They can be taken individually or as a group of awards to suit the learner’s development needs. The certificates are delivered at Level 1 and 2 and can also be undertaken as part of an occupationally linked Apprenticeship at Level 2 or 3. In English, learners will be tested on:
- Reading (test duration 60min).
- Writing (test duration L1 60min; L2 75min).
- Speaking, Listening and Communication (SLC).
All parts need to be completed in order to attain the certificate. No portfolio of evidence is required however; the reading and writing elements will be tested either as a paper based or online test. The SLC element is internally and externally verified by means of an Standards Verifier (SV) visit. One of the key differences between Key and Functional Skills is that FS places a greater emphasis on developing and assessing problem solving skills. Key Skills will no longer be available except as part of an apprenticeship from April 2011.
Course Duration: These awards are normally delivered as a bespoke qualification dependent on initial diagnostic assessment. Typically 12 – 16hrs study time over a period of 10 – 16 weeks. This time can be significantly reduced if dedicated class time can be agreed.